The milestone was celebrated with a morning tea at GOTAFE’s Trade Training Centre in Wangaratta.
The WorldSkills competition provides a platform for apprentices, trainees and students from across regional Victoria to showcase their talents and represent their industries.
Students who participate have the chance to win gold, silver and bronze medals and go on to compete at a national level.
Mick Prato, Victorian regional manager, WorldSkills, said that every two years, more than 500 competitions were held in 42 regions across Australia
“I’m really looking forward to the regional competition ...” Mr Prato said.
“It gives a platform to local students and provides an opportunity to represent Victoria at the next WorldSkills Australia National Championships, which will take place in Melbourne in August 2023.
“If you want to be the best in your field, this is a great way to go ahead and prove it — it's a practical application.
“WorldSkills competitors should return from the competition better employees because of the soft skills they pick up along the way.”
From July to October regional competitions are being held at GOTAFE, and Wodonga TAFE.
GOTAFE chief executive officer Travis Heeney said both were proud to be participating in WorldSkills as it was a great platform to showcase the depth of talent and quality of students and businesses in regional Victoria.
“Students who participate in WorldSkills are put under competitive pressure and learn to balance speed and accuracy to complete their projects, which better prepares them for industry,” Mr Heaney said.
GOTAFE student Brylee Roberts followed his passion for computers and technology which steered him towards enrolling in Certificate IV Cyber Security.
Mr Roberts competed in WorldSkills last year, and said he loved every minute.
“Since I was a teenager one of my hobbies has been breaking computers and finding different ways to access information,” Mr Roberts said.
“While my strength has always been in breaking down systems, it’s been really interesting learning how to defend and stop that from happening.”
Phil Paterson, chief executive officer, Wodonga TAFE, said competitors and their trainers were the stars of the regional competitions, but training providers had an important role to play in WorldSkills.
“This year’s central Victorian WorldSkills competition caters for 18 study areas and industries in our region,” Mr Paterson said.
“The WorldSkills competition provides a fantastic opportunity for students to network, build skills and confidence, and create a platform for them to become highly recognised in their industries and skillsets.”
For more details regarding WorldSkills, please visit www.worldskills.org.au/what-we-do/worldskills-australia-competitions/regional/
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